Burbank's daughters had a vision they presented to Charbonnet Funeral Home.

"They said that they didn't want a traditional religious-type service," said Lyelle Bellard, funeral director. "She was one of those people that just enjoyed life, enjoyed living, just enjoyed people."

There was initially some resistance from family members.

"A lot of people didn't accept what I was doing," Kimball said. "I didn't let that stop me, and I know she's happy with how she's looking."

"When I walked in, I feel like I was in her house and I didn't hurt so much," said Sherline Burbank, Miriam's sister. "It's like she's not dead. It's not like a funeral. It's like she's just in the room with us."